Distance: 10 km (6.2 mi) return

Duration: 6-8 hours return

Elevation Gain: 1,052 m (3,451 feet)

This trail continues form the Sealy Tarns viewpoints. It traverses more rugged terrain and is only suitable for hikers with some experience. There’s also an avalanche danger here. You’ll come across a large boulder field on your way up as well as a pass, revealing glaciers and jagged peaks. The historic red hut offers overnight accommodation and bookings are essential to stay here. The descent back to the car park from here can be strenuous, particularly on the knees. Hiking poles are highly recommended for this trail. But in our opinion, the best scenery on this hike can be experienced back at the Sealy Tarns viewpoint or the hill just a couple hundred meters above it. So we would only recommend the hut hike if you’re looking for a physical challenge or if you're planning to stay there overnight. The hut itself provides basic facilities for overnight stays, offering a unique experience in the heart of New Zealand's highest peaks.

To stay overnight: http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-stay/backcountry-huts-by-region/canterbury/aoraki-mount-cook/mueller-hut/